Action 1: Defend Washington marijuana use

Jeff Sessions recently stated that federal prosecution of marijuana use has been too lenient in the states that have legalized it (Washington, Oregon, and Colorado). Washington Attorney General Bob Ferguson has defended the use of marijuana under current laws in the state. Thank AG Ferguson, and call on our senators to join him in condemning Sessions's war on marijuana.

Attorney General Bob Ferguson:

360-753-6200

Script:

“My name is [name], and I’m calling from [city, zip]. I am calling to thank Attorney General Ferguson for publicly condemning Jeff Sessions’ inaccurate claims on marijuana enforcement in Washington and for proactively engaging the US Attorney General in defense of the drug’s future in our state.”

Senator Patty Murray:

Seattle - 206-553-5545

Senator Maria Cantwell:

Seattle - 206-220-6400

Script:

“My name is [name], and I’m calling from [city, zip]. I am calling to ask Senator [name] to join Attorney General Ferguson for publicly condemning Jeff Sessions’ inaccurate claims on marijuana enforcement in Washington.”

Background:

Since 2013, state laws decriminalizing marijuana have benefitted from the protection of the Cole Memo, a US Justice Department memo instructing federal prosecutors not to go after individuals, growers, or sellers who are in line with state regulations.

Jeff Sessions has described his belief that the US Justice Department has been applying the Cole Memo too liberally, and he has sent Washington, Oregon and Colorado nearly identical letters about marijuana use. These letters allege that the states are not protecting key public health concerns, with the possible intent of opening up their marijuana users, growers, or sellers to federal prosecution within the parameters of the Cole Memo.

Washington Attorney General Bob Ferguson has responded by refuting this letter’s narrative and declaring that “any action from the Department of Justice short of allowing our well-regulated, voter-approved system to continue is unacceptable.”

Action 2: Join today’s anti-Trump rally

Join Seattle Indivisible at the Henry M. Jackson Federal Building today, and ensure your voice is heard! The August 8th rally will focus on mental health under Trump and the musician / activist Tae Phoenix is hosting. Please see the Facebook event for more info.